63 21 183 Removing and Installing/Replacing Left Or Right Tail Light (On Rear Lid)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 BMW X5, 2009 BMW X5, 2008 BMW X5, and 2007 BMW X5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required:

00 9 318. See ASSEMBLY WEDGES (SET IN PLASTIC CASE)

IMPORTANT: Read and comply with notes on protection against electrostatic damage (ESD protection). See 61 35... NOTES ON ESD PROTECTION (ELECTRO STATIC DISCHARGE) .

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove luggage compartment light. See 63 31 080 Removing and Installing/Replacing Luggage Compartment Light

NOTE: For purposes of clarity, rear lid trim panel is shown removed.

Disconnect plug connection (1).

Release nut (2) and remove with retaining bar (3).

Tightening torque 63 21 3AZ. See REAR LIGHT UNIT E70 .

Fig 1: Identifying Plug Connection With Nut

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Risk of damage!
Tape off rear lid with suitable protective film (1).

Lever off rear light with special tool. See 00 9 310 ASSEMBLY WEDGES (SET IN PLASTIC CASE) in direction of arrow.

Installation:

Clean bonding surface and allow to dry.

Make sure gap is uniform all round between rear light (2) and rear lid.

Fig 2: Identifying Protective Film And Rear Light

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Position lugs (1) of rear light exactly over side edge of rear lid.

In case of replacement or partial detachments, lay butylene tape (2) (sourcing reference: BMW Parts Service) depending on the conditions on rear light again.

Fig 3: Identifying Lugs Position With Butylene Tape

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Replacement:

If necessary, remove bulbs. See 63 99 315 Replacing Light Bulb(s) for Left or Right Rear Light .